My family has a long history of being obese. They usually
start gaining weight during high school. I try to stay as active as possible so
this won’t happen—is there a way for me to not turn out like them?

Dear Obesity Issue,

I applaud you for being aware of how important it is to
develop healthy eating and fitness habits at a young age. It’s also realistic
to acknowledge that the genes you were born with do have some effect on the
jeans you wear. But there are many obese parents whose daughters do not wind up
with weight problems.

Learning to say no to sugary soda and junk food can mean
saying yes to your health, and beware of huge portions. Sharing is a solution,
too. At the movies, share a popcorn rather than getting your own. At
restaurants, order one “death by chocolate” with lots of forks to split with
friends rather than ordering multiple desserts. Eating mindfully and in
moderation makes a difference and, of course, getting exercise is important,
too. After school or on the weekends, take advantage of great fall weather and
bike, hike or swim with friends. Get in the habit of saying, “Want to go for a
walk?” rather than “Want to get a pizza?”

A little awareness can go a long way, and it’s wise of you
to be thinking about how you do—and do not—want to be like your family.

Make it known that I am very available and dying to go, and hope you crush picks up on the cluesWalk up to my crush and ask him to be my date. I’m not just gonna sit around and wait for Prince CharmingMy BFF and I have vowed to be each other's dates to spare us the embarrassment of not getting askedYou won't see me attending any dances with these two left feet!